When John Bowlby (1988) introduced his theory of attachment, he described the psychotherapist as being like a responsive mother with a child; they must be sensitive, provide security as they explore the world, and offer support when needed (Mikulincer & Shaver, 2016). Bowlby’s (1988) theory suggests that attachments formed with caregivers in our childhood impact […]

Many clients enter therapy because they have relationship patterns that they are tired of repeating (Jackman, 2020). They may arrive at the first session asking, “Why do I push good people away?” or “Why do I keep making the same mistakes?” Inner child healing believes that the answers lie deep within. The consequences of a

As the sun cascades behind the distant mountains, it creates a beautiful array of orange, peach, and pink. When we bask in the glory of a sunset and reflect on creation or enjoy the embrace of a loved one, it provides meaning. As we engage with our community, participate in creative endeavors, and support a

Reading my philosophy thesis was like receiving an email from my 25-year-old self. “You don’t find meaning; you create it,” was my answer to the question, what is meaning? Drawn in by the unforgiving directness of the existentialist philosophers, I was (perhaps naively) attempting to respond to the question that Albert Camus said must be

Ikigai (ee-key-guy) is a Japanese concept that combines the terms iki, meaning “alive” or “life,” and gai, meaning “benefit” or “worth.” When combined, these terms mean that which gives your life worth, meaning, or purpose. Ikigai is similar to the French term “raison d’etre” or “reason for being.” In this article, we will delve deeper

Oh dear… you were late for work, again. Or maybe you spotted a typo in your presentation? Did you not make it to the grocery store in time? Or you trained hard for that marathon but didn’t make the cut-off time? Did you do poorly on your exam? If you answered yes to any of

Ikigai is as much a way of life as an idea. While the Japanese approach to finding and living in a meaningful way is ultimately a simple one, its effects are far-reaching. This article reviews five of the best books written about ikigai. It explores how the Japanese define and share the concept and why it

‘Ikigai’ (ee-key-guy) is a small word with a profound meaning. Translated from Japanese, ‘ikigai’ means reason to live. It is primarily associated with the town of Okinawa, which boasts the longest living people on earth. We will look more closely at this fascinating concept, with particular emphasis on inspiring ikigai quotes related to acceptance and living

The Japanese art of kintsugi involves repairing broken pottery with gold leaf to produce something more valuable and beautiful than the original. Imperfections form part of the character and the beauty of the new piece of art (Ayuda, 2018). How we live, personally and professionally, can also become fractured. Another Japanese practice, ikigai, can help us

What was your reason for getting up this morning? Often, we pass through life unclear of the meaning, motivation, or values behind what we do and how we live. And yet, it doesn’t have to be this way. The Japanese practice of ikigai helps you find your reason for living, shaping how you live now